The Symbols of The Hope Tree

The sculpture’s tactile surface begs for you to glide your hands over the symbols carved there – a kind of emotional braille. The symbols are carved into the tree trunk – they are “of the tree” and not just “on the tree.” This is in recognition of the growing and changing nature of hope. It would be wonderful if hope were something you worked hard to get and then kept at the ready like a smooth stone in your pocket. But hope has a life cycle of its own – sometimes strong and palpable, sometimes weak and vaporous. And it is often not very smooth. Each of the 48 symbols on the tree were chosen for their historic or cultural connection to hope or its precursors. Hope requires reflection, courage, perseverance, faith and the support of others. It is not just one thing or found in just one place.

Every culture – modern and ancient – has found the need to make a mark trying to express this concept. It is no easy task. We are all so individual about what inspires us, what speaks to our hearts.

Relax now and read the stories behind The Hope Tree symbols and see if you can find one that resonates with your heart and spirit. One that will help you get through one more week, one more day, one more hour, one more minute.

Click the thumbnails below to see a larger image & read the story behind each Symbol

Adaptability-African

When facing a diagnosis of cancer, adaptability is a skill that we must all develop. This African symbol translates as “Denkyem:” a turtle or crocodile because they live in the water, yet breathe the air, demonstrating an ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

As we are called upon to thrive in this challenging time, let us remember what the turtle teaches us: breathe, swim, rest, wait . . . Breathe, swim, rest, wait. Climb into your shell when needed to recuperate, poke your head out when you are able to and then extend all four legs to walk away when you are ready.

Modern day lyrics from the James Taylor song “Like Everyone She Knows” inspire us to weather the storm with adaptability:

“Hold tight to your heart’s desire.
Never ever let it go.
Let nobody fool you into giving it up too soon.
Tend your own fire.
Lay low and be strong.
Wait awhile.
Wait it out.
Wait it on out.
Wait it out.
It’ll come along.”

Adaptability-African

Albatross

For hundreds of years sailors traveling the Earth’s oceans have felt great good fortune upon sighting an albatross gliding above the waves.

With a wing span of nearly 11 feet and a calm flying heart rate equal to their resting heart rate, they became symbols of hope for endurance, stamina and the ability to endure until land was in sight.

The grand wings of this lovely bird remind us of all those who elevate us now: family, loved ones, experts, care-givers, friends and countless kind strangers. All lifting us up to meet this challenge of a lifetime. Their love and caring keep us aloft on a higher plane as we focus on the calm tick-tick-tick of our own beating hearts. Beating out the rhythm: I can make – I can make it – I can make it.

May we all glide like the albatross – not bothered by the surf and wind around us as we sail through the obstacles before us.

Albatross

Anchor

In addition to being an early Christian symbol due to its cross structure, the anchor is a symbol of well-grounded hope and fresh starts. As the anchor was often a seaman’s last resort in stormy weather, it was frequently connected with hope.

A dropped anchor seeks the sea floor for purchase – just as we must drop anchor and find purchase when serious illness strikes. Our lives come to a screeching halt with the diagnosis of cancer. Our body may roil and sway above the rocking ocean surface but our hearts and spirits will remain safely tethered to their source – quietly awaiting the storm’s end as we rest in the calm, deep seas of hope.

Family, loved ones, experts, care-givers, friends and countless kind strangers weave together to make an unbreakable braided rope for our anchor. This rope holds us firmly – like an anchor sunk deeply into the salty, silted bottom of the sea – enabling us to keep a clear mind amidst the confusion and varying storms of life.

Anchor

Angel

The written history of mankind in many cultures makes countless references to Angels as bearers of joyful news. They are a heraldic symbol for dignity, glory, hope and honor. Regardless of the culture – whether they sit at God’s side or float near us whispering encouragement in our ear – we believe they gently wrap us in the loving embrace of their wings when we need them most.

Notice that on our sculpted Angel her cape draped wings are very much a part of her being. These wings are not simply stuck on her back like a prop to be shucked off at the end of the performance. They are “of” her and not just “on” her. And we all have wings in one form or another. We all have angels residing in us – as memories, as feelings, as knowing.

The revered poet, Maya Angelou, calls upon the spirit of every person who has ever been kind to her when she is faced with adversity. Saying, “Come along with me. I need you now.” Think of all the amazing people who are trying to help you now as individual feathers in your own wings – just waiting for your call to action.

Angel

Bison

The bison holds a sacred place in many Native American cultures. They see it as a gift from God to their people and deserving a complex host of attributes: Provision, Gratitude, Abundance, Consistency, Strength, Stability, Blessing and Prosperity. It’s behemoth humped shoulders were symbolic of store-holds of energy readily available in the spiritual realms. These cultures revered bison imagery and used it in many ceremonies asking for and anticipating relief from their hardships.

If there were bison on the distant hill, there was always hope. Every part of the bison was used to provide Native Americans with food, clothing, shelter and weapons. It was considered extreme disrespect of this sacred gift to waste any part of the Native American bison or to kill it for sport, as many of the white men did. Because of the excessive hunting of white men, the bison in North America nearly died out. When President Grover Cleveland made hunting buffalo illegal in 1893, there were only 300 left.

We adorn the Hope Tree with a bison to remind us to recall our own boundless stores of spiritual energy – “store-holds” that we have been gathering for a lifetime that will serve us well now. We are well-provisioned. We are grateful to all those who rally for our care and support. We accept the abundance of love, encouragement and knowledge that surround us now. We pray for consistent focus in staying committed to our healing process. We will martial the strength this journey demands. We acknowledge what a blessing it is to fight for this life that we cherish so deeply. We anticipate the emotional and physical prosperity that will soon return.

Bison

Boat

Manned boats have been rising and falling with the tides of the Earth’s oceans for 40,000 years. No wonder that in countless cultures they have become symbolic of dreams, bright prospects and moving forward in life – toward life – carrying us to places prior thought impossible to reach. Even before the invention actual boats man and animal alike would cling to and climb aboard a floating log or iceberg as a life raft – a respite from the struggle to stay a float.

We must find that tenacity now. We must stay afloat while our bodies go about the business of healing. The planking of our boats are made up of loved ones, family, friends, care givers, doctors, surgeons, neighbors, prayers, positive thoughts, smiles and hand holding strangers. We collect them all – all the good thoughts and wishes showering us like the surf that batters us on other fronts. We will ride out this storm – afloat on our ship of hope – into calmer waters.

Boat

Bravery-African

This is an African symbol for bravery, fearlessness and valor. It translates as “KWATAKYE ATIKO”, which means “Hairstyle of Kwatakye.” Kwatakye was a famous, fearless African warrior and captain. Though bravery does not mean being actually fearless – as bravery coexists quite comfortably with fear. Bravery just allows us to look the seemingly insurmountable in the eye and proceed anyway. This is actually the essence of hope: we gather all the facts, we learn all we can about what we are up against. And then we choose to focus on what can be done.

This ancient symbol has four bars – perhaps symbolizing arms and legs – pointing out in opposite directions and two spirals curling in towards the center. The bars remind us to reach out and grasp what can help us or protect ourselves by warding off what cannot. The spirals encourage us to look within ourselves – mind and spirit – for the strength to endure, the wisdom to make the right choices and the patience to await things all in their proper time.

Companions of hope, these are all attributes that we will be called upon to nurture. As we travel this path of cancer treatment we pray for the ability to be brave, wise and show valor despite our uncertainty.

Bravery-African

Bridge

The sight of a bridge in the distance has meant a shortcut – a way around – and a new possibility since the beginning of time. If we were ever in need of “a way around,” it is now as we face this landscape of cancer stretched out before us. A bridge both unites two places and divides them at the same time. And it is an awkward in-between place: as long as we are on the bridge, we are neither here nor there. It is fraught with symbolism as we leave one world behind and step over the bridge to another.

We think of “bridge-builders” as diplomats and peacemakers – seeking to heal wounds and find common ground. Cancer can leave us feeling stuck on the bridge – neither well nor sick – in a mental and physical limbo as we go about the daily routine of treatment. We strive to focus on the new view provided by this high perch. We let it help us see our situation from another perspective. But just as we will eventually choose to step off the bridge from one world to another, our bodies will make the transition to wellness. We have many experts, loved ones and helpers on the bridge with us – peacemakers keeping cancer at bay as we go about the joy of living our lives – pointing the way to the future.

Arm in arm, as we pass the test of crossing this bridge together, we reach for the potential offered by this new land, this new way.

Bridge

Bumblebee

Not until the 1940s did scientists first prove it was possible for bees to fly. Until then, the laws of aerodynamics dictated that the bumblebee should be incapable of flight, as it does not have the capacity – in terms of wing size or beats per second – to achieve flight with the degree of wing-load necessary. With the advent of slow-motion photography and film the articulated nature of bee wings was discovered. Rather than having the stiff wings of a helicopter, this articulation allows them to “cup” the air and overcome the physics challenge presented by their weight versus wing length.

Unaware that it was impossible for them to fly, bees have happily been pollinating the Earth’s flora and fauna for millions of years. Just because something looks impossible to the best minds of the day does not mean that it is impossible.

Let us all share the bee’s unwitting ignorance of what is impossible and choose to fly anyway.

Bumblebee

Butterfly

We watch the slow and clumsy caterpillar gather and stretch along a stem as if measuring it out inch by inch. Then, hanging by a thread, it patiently wraps itself in a protective cocoon – a chrysalis. When the butterfly emerges a mere 7-10 later – opening its magnificent and impossible wings to dry in a cool breeze – we think the miracle is complete. But the journey is just beginning.

The butterfly is soon ready to fly its erratic dance over nearly 3,000 miles on cross-continental migrations in search of home. How this whisper of a creature can stay on course despite wind and storms is nothing less than astounding.

Our safe cocoon will be created from knowledge, truth, love, support, good thoughts, professional care, faith and hope. Even though we feel ourselves hanging by a thread, we need to trust our invincible link to life.

Hope in hand – wings at the ready – we must now go about the business of surviving this storm. We will be blown off course and buffeted by many obstacles – but we will faithfully return to our belief and expectation that wellness awaits us.

Is it any wonder that one Greek word for butterfly is “soul?”

Butterfly

Cherry Blossom

Though indigenous to many Asian states including Japan, Korea, China, and India, our own nation’s Capitol is home to many thousands of cherry blossom trees. These were originally sent as a gift from Japan in 1912 – symbolic of blossoming understanding. Some Japanese generations have believed that the blossoms are reincarnated souls. They bloom quickly, brilliantly and begin to drop their petals just as quickly – a spectacular but transient beauty.

In the Japanese culture they represent the transience of life and are a reminder to honor Buddhist teachings about the transitory nature of life itself. In the Chinese culture they are considered feminine and ripe with potential life.

The concept of blossoming understanding – and, therefore, blossoming hope – along with the message to live fully while you can earns this symbol a place on the Hope Tree. As we wait for our own understanding to blossom, these fleeting beauties remind us to make the most of every day – and enjoy the life we have right now.

Cherry Blossom

Children

Since the beginning of human history children have represented the future hopes of every generation. They are filled with promise and potential. It is as if all’s right with the world when children are playing and healthy. We choose the Rocking Horse as our symbol for children because it is such an iconic symbol of youth. Children swing a leg over the tiny saddle with such enthusiasm and expectation. They believe they will soon be galloping – breathless – over the meadows, chasing the Sun as it sets.

By carving the Rocking Horse on the Hope Tree, we intend it as a reminder to look to the future with the breathless joy of child. Let us approach this task of healing with a child’s unquestioning innocence and trust that all will be well.

Children

Community-Aboriginal

Three separate symbols for community appear on the Hope Tree. More than any other symbol, community embodies what it will take to recover from this cancer journey. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton first coined the phrase “it takes a village.” And it will take your very own personal village to weather this storm intact. This communal symbol comes to us from the Aboriginal culture of Australia.

Indigenous Australians’ have a rich oral tradition and spiritual values based upon reverence for the land and a belief in the Dreamtime. They have drawn symbols to represent this Dreamtime for thousands of years. The U shape reflects the mark left behind by a person. Groups of U shapes around a circle indicate aboriginal people sitting around a campsite. They can be living individuals, gone but remembered individuals or dreamed individuals. These different plains rally now in love and support. Let us learn to sit quietly within the circle and receive this gift – knowing full well that we will gather around another when our need has passed.

Community-Aboriginal

Community-African

Community is such a critical part of hope and recovery that it appears three times on the Hope Tree. More than any other symbol, community embodies what it will take to recover from this cancer journey. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton first coined the phrase “it takes a village.” And it will take your very own personal village to weather this storm intact. This African symbol for community describes its function and purpose so perfectly.

This interesting symbol of friendship and interdependence shows the teeth and the tongue playing interdependent roles in the mouth. It translates as “Ese Ne Tekrema” which literally means “the teeth and the tongue.” They may come into conflict, but they must find a way to work together without hurting one another in the process.

On the Hope Tree we liken this to the community of systems within our bodies that are juxtaposed with one another as we go through treatment. They perform a delicate dance – like teeth and tongue – as they must thrive, but extinguish the cancer at the same time.

Community-African

Community-Circular

It is not surprising that our Hope Tree carries several different cultural symbols for community. It can be one of the most important elements in a satisfying life. Our communities can provide us pleasure, security, education and support. By their very nature they inspire joy, hope, love, and peace. They also give us that all important human need to belong: to know that people care about us and that we care about them. Communities give us hope in all that is good in ourselves and others.

On this symbol for community five members twirl about in a circle. They are nearly touching, each swept up by the same supporting wind. While they are capable of flying off in separate directions, they choose to fly in a formation of sorts. They willingly travel together – not unlike a flock of geese in formation – silently agreeing to go where they all go, suffer what they all suffer and rejoice in what they all find joyous. This symbol reminds us of those who are taking this journey with us – whirling about in this unknown storm – steadfastly within arms reach whenever we need them.

Community-Circular

Cross

The cross-shaped sign, represented in its simplest form by a crossing of two lines at right angles, greatly antedates, in both East and West, the introduction of Christianity. It goes back to a very remote period of human civilization. It is supposed to have been used not just for its ornamental value, but also with religious significance.

In Christianity the cross reminds Christians of God’s act of love in Christ’s sacrifice at Calvary—”the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” The cross also reminds Christians of Jesus’ victory over sin and death, since it is believed that through His death and resurrection He conquered death itself. They venerate it not as a material object seen in isolation but as the symbol of the sacrifice by which Christ saved them, as the instrument of Christ’s triumph

We in turn hope for our own eventual transformation from these earthly bodies to heavenly spirit, from pain and suffering to comfort, from confusion and worry to understanding, and from struggle to surrender. As we look upon this symbol, we hope and pray that our lives continue to be worthy of God’s loving embrace.

Cross

Daffodil

This flower of North America, Europe, North Africa and India grows in the most unlikely places and in the harshest of conditions. Since 1957 it has been the worldwide symbol for Cancer Research Fund Raising efforts. Symbolizing rebirth and renewal we carve this blossom on the Hope Tree as a reminder to hold out until the Spring. They are ever vigilant in returning each spring, and with their return we are reminded that their beauty is capable of following on the shirttails of even the harshest winters.

Who among us catches this flash of golden yellow tucked away in some snow covered patch of green and does not feel hope: hope for the end of winter, hope for a better day, hope that life goes on despite the storm’s temporary embrace. We also use it here as a reminder that your will to live is “ever vigilante.” Daffodil sap contains sharp crystals that prevent animals from eating the flower. You too possess the sharpness of spirit needed to fend off this cancer.

Daffodil

Dove

In the book of Genesis in the Bible, Noah sends out a dove after the flood. It then returns with an olive branch – thus giving them proof that the waters were receding. The Greeks and Romans used this same image as a sign of peace. To Christians, a dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit.

Doves are associated with motherly love and salvation as they are one of the few birds who produce milk in their crops – thus feeding their young with their own bodies. Their gentle cooing, pure white feathers and gently rustling wings are often associated with some of our fondest memories.

We see them released skyward at religious ceremonies, weddings, christenings, and funerals around the world.

And for thousands of years doves have been used as carrier messengers. We also use one on the Hope Tree as a messenger – taking our hopes for health and wholeness on wing directly to the heavens.

Dove

Family

Early man quickly realized that the load was lighter with many hands to help and that survival was more likely within the protection of a group. In contemporary times “family” symbolizes a haven from the world that can supply absolute fulfillment. At their best, families provide an environment that encourages love, intimacy, trust and support in difficult times.

Kinship and family forms have often been thought to impact the social relations in the society as a whole. In many cultures they are the building social unit of the structure of a society. In this way family soon encompasses much more than mother, father, child.

As we move through this cancer journey our family will grow to include care givers, fellow patients, friends and kind neighbors. It is in this context of the Human Family that we celebrate this symbol on the Hope Tree.

Family

Fish

This ancient symbol predates the use of the cross as a symbol for Christ by some 200 years. It is considered the first symbol of Christianity and is a meaningful symbol for many other religions. For Christianity, it’s origins are believed to be from Christ’s many visits to the shore to gather his apostles and the miraculous multiplication of fishes and loaves. Millions of people worldwide see it as a symbol of hope and salvation.

Fish beneath the water hold endless mystery for us – they represent that which is certainly there, but cannot be seen.

A calm lake or calm seas can appear motionless. Almost asleep. But we must look deeper. Slip beneath the surface of these calm waters and we see life teaming from every molecule. This is precisely what is happening in our bodies as we heal ourselves of cancer. We will not be fooled by how still things appear on the surface. We will trust in the billions of cells -swimming like fish in our body’s own water – are going about the urgent business of repair. We will trust in our miraculous ability to heal, recover and thrive once more.

Fish

Flame

The symbolism of a flame holds a symbolic place in virtually every religion known to man. For over 2,000 years the flame has been seen as a symbol of the Holy Spirit, “the light of the world” and Christ’s enduring love for us. The Olympic torch commemorates the theft of fire from the Greek god Zeus by Prometheus, its origins lie in ancient Greece. The USA honors President Kennedy’s grave with an eternal flame representing the thought that his contribution to mankind and our nation can never be extinguished.

Whether we humans see a flame from afar at the end of a long journey, a flickering candle by which to gaze into a loved one’s eyes or an oil lamp lighting words in the book that will offer an explanation – we all the same way. Hope for warmth from the cold, hope for the enlightenment of seeing what is real, hope to be with our loved ones many more years and hope for the eternal brightness in our spirits.

Flame

Gingko

The Gingko Biloba tree is truly a living fossil. They have changed little for 270 million years. Add to this their ability to survive high winds, forest fires and severe winters – despite their potential 100 FT plus heights. Four gingko trees were the only vegetation to survive the bombing of Hiroshima at the end of WWII and remain alive to this day. Astoundingly, their leaves and roots are used to enhance memory, treat hangovers, deter insects, battle heart disease, stop organ rejection after transplants, improve dementia and fight cancer – to name just a few.

The gingko’s ability to survive, adapt, thrive under adversity and heal mankind has helped to make it a universal symbol for hope. The Ginkgo tree is a phenomenon, an object of veneration, a sacred tree of the East – a symbol of unity of opposites – yin yang by some seen as a symbol of changelessness, possessing miraculous power, bearer of hope and of the immeasurable past, a symbol of love. Because of all its properties it is associated with longevity.

We include the Gingko on our Hope Tree because of its ability to adapt in the face of adversity and find a way to thrive. This simple leaf has such strength beyond its delicate appearance – as do you in this fight with cancer.

Gingko

Grapes

How appropriate that the symbol so visible and important to this beautiful Napa Valley is also a healing fruit. Not only does the delicate skin of the grape provide protection for blood vessels throughout our bodies, but the seed itself inhibits cancer growth and heart failure. No wonder this fruit and its lovely wines have nourished mankind and joined in his life celebrations for thousands of years. The grape: a symbol of hope for health, prosperity and many more gatherings with those we love.

Fruit of all kinds were considered to be evidence of God’s kindness and a symbol of the goodness. Views on the significance of the wine vary between denominations. In Christian art, grapes often represent the blood of Christ, such as the grape leaves in Caravaggio’s John the Baptist. There is an element of birth/rebirth within the representation of the grapes. There is a connection to victory – as the ripe harvest shows the promise of rewards being reaped and turned into future sustenance.

The domestication of purple grapes originated in Central Asia. Yeast, one of the earliest domesticated microorganisms, occurs naturally on the skins of grapes, leading to the innovation of alcoholic drinks such as wine.

We use the grape here for its rejuvenating qualities. The grapes must die in a sense and be transformed into a differently living version of themselves as wine. We pray for the stamina needed as we wait for that same transformation in ourselves.

Grapes

Hands

From the first hand opened as proof of holding no weapons, hands have become a symbol of who we are: the heart and soul of our intentions. Our hands often speak more clearly than our words. Cupped hands denote a pledge of faith, sincerity, justice and are symbolic of support and strength. We can clench our fists in fear and tension. A hand on our chest reflects sincerity and deep appreciation. We raise our hands in surrender. We fold our hands in contentment and contemplation. We open our arms, hands out to the sides in a sweeping, open gesture of inclusive welcome. We hold our hands level and firm in a gesture of balance – mimicking the scales of justice.

The word for manifestation in Latin is formed around the world “manus” – being the Latin word for hand. We may dream our dreams in our minds, but it is with our hands that we build the world around us – transforming unseen energy into the world of form.

We place the hands in such a prominent place on the Hope Tree in reverence to their limitless expressions. Our sculpted hands are cupped in a protective embrace. We pray that the right skilled hands will find us now as we begin this cancer experience. Who among us does not need the hand of another to help us walk this path back to wholeness?

Hands

Hope-African

The symbol you see here is an ancient African symbol for hope. Translated as “Nyame Biribi Wo Soro” it means: A reminder that God’s dwelling place is in the heaven, where he can listen to all prayers. And, indeed, the symbol looks like two ears. It reminds us to listen to ourselves as well.

No matter what the culture nor how ancient, humans have always had a primal need to feel that there is something out there larger than ourselves: A presence that watches over us, listens to us and has a greater plan for us than we know.

This symbol could also be mirror images of eye-like or mask-like shapes. It could be a reminder to look within ourselves for the strength we need – finding the natural ability to heal that we all possess. Allowing ourselves to heal.

Let a power greater than ourselves “reside in heaven” – watching over us now – as we go about the Earthly business of getting well.

Hope-Africa

Hope-Chinese

Written Chinese is considered to be one of the world’s oldest active, continuously used writing systems dating back at least 4,000 years. Written Chinese is not based predominantly on an alphabet. Instead, its characters are glyphs whose components may depict objects or represent abstract notions. Hope might certainly be considered an abstract notion as we cannot see it, feel it, touch it, hear it or even describe it. Yet every culture – as we see in Chinese – has a way to capture its essence.

We interpret many meanings within the seemingly unruly hash marks and darts of this symbol. Though we may not understand these marks at first glance, it does not mean that they are not working together to send us a message. This is similar to what we are experiencing on this cancer journey: tests, opinions, treatments and feelings that are confusing. But there is a message. There is a way. All will become clear in it’s time.

Hope-Chinese

Horse

Without question, our modern world could not have developed without the horse and its place in human history as helpmate. How unlikely that these huge creatures – so free and wild – could be urged to our aid. For thousands of years they have offered us a kind of mobility that changed our world: helping us outrun our enemies, defend our homelands, run along bison and hunt, till our soils to produce life-giving crops and offer us companionship and comfort.

Another aspect of Native American symbol meanings of the horse comes with the understanding that a horse’s wild freedom can be harnessed and used to the benefit of man. This understanding comes from our mutual patience with one another – acknowledging mutual respect and awareness of each other. It is a profound partnership.

We acknowledge them here because they offer us hope that the free and wild things within our own bodies can also be brought to our aid. We strive to have their patience as we listen to what our bodies are telling us as we go about the business of healing.

Horse

Hummingbird

Against all odds this tiny whisper of a bird flits, hovers and soars at dizzying speeds. Their hearts can beat an astounding 1,260 beats per minute as their wings beat up to 100 times a second. The fluttering wings of the hummingbird move in the figure eight pattern of an infinity symbol – justifying their symbolism of eternity, continuity, and infinity. In Native American cultures a Hummingbird totem is a messenger of hope and jubilation. By drinking flower nectar – a vital part of their nourishment – they also pollinate many plant species that have no other way to reproduce. Amazing migrators, Hummingbirds are known to wing their way as far as 2,000 miles to reach their destination. Hummingbirds need nourishment every few minutes to keep bodies in motion with tireless energy.

We adorn the Hope Tree with their image as a symbol for accomplishing that which seems impossible – teaching us to find the miracle of joyful living from our present circumstances.

By observing seemingly tireless hummingbirds, we strive to have their endurance as we search for wellness. They remind us to be persistent in the pursuit of our dreams, and adopt the tenacity of the hummingbird in our lives.

Sip by sip, inch by inch we too can find the nourishment we need to sustain ourselves in seemingly impossible circumstances – leaving hope and joy in our wake.

Hummingbird

Journey-Aboriginal

This ancient Aboriginal symbol represents the timeless journey of a quest, pilgrimage or “walkabout.” When we are on our own in this way – without creature comforts and familiar crutches – we can learn the most about ourselves. Many cultures still have these traditions of sending young people off on their own to learn their strengths and weaknesses. Along the way they discover the Divine and return from their ordeal stronger and wiser – with new found confidence that they can handle anything.

Navigating this cancer terrain – undergoing testing, treatment, surgery, chemotherapy or radiation – is not unlike a “walkabout” into mysterious and unfamiliar territory. This journey – despite all the love and support around us – is just such a singular quest. We alone must endure. We will be tested in ways we could never have imagined – finding inner strengths and courage that we never knew existed. Like it or not, we are now on the journey of a lifetime. And just as Lao Tzu tells us in his historic Tao Te Ching, the journey of a lifetime begins with one small step.

As we put one foot in front of the other – tuning in to our natural bodies and spiritual intuition – may we find our to our authentic selves and true wellness.

Journey-Aboriginal

Lamb

The lamb that is nestled serenely on the Hope Tree is representative of all patients struggling with cancer. She lays asleep in her nest – above the fray. This safe resting place was built by helping hands, doctors, nurses, loved ones, neighbors, friends, knowledge, treatment, science and prayers. Her serenity comes from a kind of surrender. Not the giving up kind of surrender – but the acceptance kind of surrender. This kind of peace comes from seeing a situation for exactly what it is, knowing the odds you face, trusting those around you and believing you can win anyway. She is shaded from above by the copper leaves of hope reaching for the stars.

Throughout history the lamb has been symbolic of sacrifice to atone for man’s sins. The early Greek word for atonement was “son.” It is in this context that some religions mean “Son of God” when they say the “Lamb of God.” It soon became associated with the pure intentions of Christ to take away the sins of the world. Our Hope Tree lamb, Loralie, acknowledges the sacrifices that she must make to be well again.

Lamb

Lamp

Manmade lamps have lit up the night for thousands of years. Imagine how it changed the lives of early humans to be able to see in the night. To carry light with them. Lamps were a new way to see – burning significantly brighter than flaming sticks or crude candles.

Whether made from brass, bronze, terra cotta, or glass – lamps show us the way to safety. The way home. The way to loved ones. Alert us to danger. A lamp might light up a new path that we had not even seen before.

We include the lamp on the Hope Tree for its ability to show us the way in the darkness – its ability to reveal things not seen or considered before. We are in a foreign land and need all the help we can muster. We will have many people holding a lamp out for us as they lead the way on this journey. Let us find the trust and wisdom to see what is there in the path before us: hope.

Lamp

Leaf

The copper leaves that you see on the Hope Tree tell a story all their own.

One side of the leaf shows man’s earliest spiritual symbol: the spiral. Drawings and carvings of spirals are found across our Earth spanning every culture and era. But is the spiral going in or coming out? Life is an endless repeating pattern of giving when we are able and receiving when we are in need. Is the spiral going up amongst the stars or down to the rich Earth? Indeed, there are times when we must stay grounded and other times when we must soar to the heavens in our search for hope.

The other half of the leaf represents a feather. It pays homage to the lighter than air, soaring, breathless quality of hope. It also reminds us of Emily Dickinson’s poem that begins: “Hope is the thing with feathers . . .” The copper leaves on the Hope Tree are reaching for the stars – as we all do when we are in need of hope. They remind us to look up, look beyond ourselves and the moment to what is possible.

Notice the spiraling copper wires that hold the leaves firmly to the Hope Tree. Hope hangs on tight and will not relinquish its hold on us. It does not wear rose-colored glasses nor float in the sky like a fluffy cloud. It is a real phenomenon that is very much attached to our hearts and minds. And science now confirms this truth. Look on our “Science of Hope” page for more about this fascinating research.

Leaf

Lotus

It is in the muck and the mire of the pond bottom that the roots of this impossibly beautiful flower – the symbol of enlightenment in many cultures – finds a way to thrive. Indeed, this plant needs the muck and mire to grow properly. In addition to providing nourishment, this unlikely environment helps the lotus blossom regulate its temperature in order to attract insects that it needs to reproduce.

Much like illness providing us with a seemingly impossible environment in which to grow, we look to the lotus as a symbol of hope that great beauty and life will come from adversity. It is in fact a by-product of that adversity. The great Desmond Tutu tells us: “Suffering is indispensable to glory.”

The lovely petals on the lotus flower open to accept light, moisture, air and life giving insects that will let it live for many generations. In much the same way that we must find a way to open ourselves – even amid the muck of mire that cancer creates – to the life giving nourishment of love and hope offered by others.

Lotus

Olive Branch

When the infamous dove brought back a fresh olive branch to Noah on the ark, he knew the flood waters had receded and that land would soon appear. And ever since that time many religions and cultural traditions have embraced the olive branch as a symbol of hope.

After countless days of floating with no end in sight – rations long spent, energy drained, will exhausted and not knowing where to turn next – it would be easy to relinquish hope. But the waters will recede, life will continue, peace will come again. Land is in sight – do not despair.

Even a branch no longer attached to its mother plant signals life. Think of the billions of healthy cells – far more than cancerous cells – remaining in your body like those in the olive branch brought to Noah – just waiting for new rich soil in which to grow and thrive. And there are more where this came from – ready to grow and flourish once more.

Olive Branch

Owl

Viewed as a protector against harm by Native Americans, the owl is seen as a creature of the night – seeing in the dark, silently navigating the dark with ease. When those times come that we ourselves feel alone in the night, let us remember the owl: symbolic of inner-knowing, intelligence, brilliance, quick-wit, power and mystery. It could be a good ally for us as we journey this unfamiliar path on our way back to health.

Look at our sculpted owl: it has large eyes and calm, folded feathers. We must act like an owl and see things not noticed before in this dark place called cancer. We must look for encouragement and hope where seemingly none exists. Let our eyes adjust to this new light – let us see beyond our years to what is really happening here. Our wings are folded in calm repose – but capable of life-saving action when needed.

We will wait and take the measure of this situation – seeing what had not been seen before and ready to take flight towards wellness when the time is right.

Owl

Pathway

This symbol comes from the Aboriginal culture and symbolizes “path.” Different from a journey – we use pathway here to define the direction we choose for our lives. Paths are indicative of beginnings, endings, and the steps we take in-between that create the life we are living. We use “journey” elsewhere among our hope symbols to encompass the things we experience while traveling along this path.

And at the moment, we likely find ourselves on an unexpected journey along our chosen path. We have met cancer along the way and things are changed forever. We will meet many people along this path who can help us find our way: family, loved ones, friends, experts, care-givers, and countless kind strangers. Our new path veers in their direction as they stride beside us – pointing out valid reasons for hope at every turn.

Long after this cancer leaves, we will take the courage found and lessons learned with us as we continue on the path that is our lives.

Pathway

Pelican

We have all seen pelicans skimming the shore – beaks agape, scooping up startled fish in their rubbery pouches. But fishing is not always plentiful. And pelicans will do anything to feed their young – including offering their own flesh and blood when no other food can be found. Thus, the pelican symbolically mirrored Christ’s sacrifice for humanity. And so this amazing bird has been a symbol of self-sacrifice for people around the world since the early days of Christianity. This image is still used in modern times as a symbol for the Eucharist and the Passion of Christ. It is also the symbol used by many international blood drive efforts – offering hope to people worldwide.

We too may be called upon during our cancer journey to sacrifice a part of ourselves in order that the whole can survive. May we find the courage found in the pelican to keep our eye on what really matters: life. The scars will heal, the hair will grow back, our energy will return – all in due time. Our job right this minute is to survive.

Like the pelican, we must find a way to live until this crisis passes.

Pelican

Perseverance African

Messages of encouragement to endure fill our childhoods: From the little train that could: “I think I can, I think I can.” to Dori in Nemo telling us: “Just keep swimming, keep swimming. Swimming and swimming and swimming.” Likely all cultures have symbols and stories about this essential survival skill. The symbol of perseverance that we chose here comes to us from the West African Adinkra people. It is inspired by the seeds of their Wawa tree – which are extremely hard. In Adinkra culture, it is a symbol of someone who is strong and tough. It inspires the individual to persevere through hardship and represents the ability to overcome difficulties by facing them head-on.

You will notice on the sculpted version of this symbol there is a trough in the center bar with circling level ground around it. This represents the recurring cycles of life. There will always be times when we slip over the edge into a ditch. But we can always find a way to lift ourselves back up – onto and into the level circle of life once more.

Perseverance

Phoenix

An imaginary bird – the phoenix – rising from the ashes is a classic Greek symbol of rebirth. Its name “Phoenix” is the word “red” in Greek language, which also associates it with the Sun. Phoenixes can carry enormous weights, and their song is said to strike fear into the hearts of the impure and instill courage into those who are pure of heart. The presence of a phoenix reinforces the underlying theme of overcoming death by embracing life.

We must clear our minds of everything but the pure gift of life, the pure appreciation for life, the pure joy of life. Let us listen for the song of the Phoenix – awakening our courageous hearts.

We may suffer the flames of cancer at the moment and all that is required to expel it. But there will be worthwhile life after this and we will be there to enjoy it.

Phoenix

Rose

The rose has a long history in many cultures of symbolizing an unfolding of consciousness and understanding. Many other cultures use the red rose as a symbol for the presence of God. The rose has long been a symbol of the Virgin Mary, Christ’s Passion and martyrdom.

In Rome a wild rose would be placed on the door of a room where secret or confidential matters were discussed. The phrase sub rosa, or “under the rose”, means to keep a secret – derived from this ancient Roman practice.

We use the rose here on the Hope Tree to symbolize the pealing away of our doubts and fears – revealing the pure heart of life, love and the will to live – despite the thorns we now endure. But let there be know secrets here: we need all the knowledge available to find that kernel of truth about potential recovery. It may just be a seed of hope – but we will do everything in our power to grow it into a magnificent rose bush that will bloom again.

Rose

Sego Lily

This Utah State Flower was an unlikely symbol of hope for thousands in the 1800s. The bulbs had long been roasted, boiled or made into a porridge by Native Americans. They were used as a more mainstream life-saving food source when locusts ravaged every edible crop in Utah. The sego lily became the only available source of food for starving Mormon settlers – since locusts found the flowers distasteful. In the middle of the settlers despair and nearly certain death, the overlooked roots of this tiny flower became their rescuer.

We use it as a symbol of hope here to remind us of small things in our own lives that we might be overlooking which could make all the difference and nourish us now. The unobtrusive sego lily is also like the quiet healthy cells in your body – working, unseen, to bring us back to a state of health.

Sego lilies can be propagated from newly-formed bulblets – but take two years to flower. We hope for this level of patience as our own bodies return to full bloom.

Sego Lily

Shamrock

St. Patrick utilized the three leafed clover as an illustration of the Christian holy trinity. Each leaf representing: Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The three protrusions may also be symbolic of the three theological virtues found in first Corinthians 13:13: Faith, Love, and Hope. Nevertheless, the shamrock was also seen as sacred in the pre-Christian days in Ireland. Due to its green color and overall shape, many viewed it as representing rebirth and eternal life.

We are familiar with it today as an Irish symbol for luck. Hope and luck make very good traveling companions as we begin our journey back to health. We also use it in the context of the Hope Tree as a symbol for the rhythm of life. If we skate along the outer edges swirling back to the center with each revolution it becomes a never ending triptych “figure eight.”

In our cancer journey we must always allow our body and sprit to return to center. Here we refill our hearts with hope before we swing out wide once more – ready to fight for our lives.

Shamrock

Shell

Shells have been used by humans in many forms for millennium: as currency, tools, vessels, scrapers, blades, boat bailing and oil lamps. In particular, scallop shells are a symbol of St. James the Great, who left his work by the seashore to follow Jesus Christ as one of his first apostles. He carried a scallop shell with him as he traveled – asking people along the way to fill his shell with food or drink – only taking what was needed to continue his journey. In this way, scallop shells began to symbolize pilgrimages in general.

That intricate shell you find largely intact as you stroll the beach has had an incredible journey from thousands of miles away – tossed and turned by the seas of life. It presents itself to us as a symbol of hope: hope that the tiniest and most delicate of us can also survive life’s storms and stay intact for another day.

We are on a pilgrimage now and will take all the nourishment – mind, body and spirit – that is offered to us.

Shell

Spiral

Spirals are all around us. Start paying attention and you will find spirals everywhere: seeds, bugs, weather patterns, plants, snails, ram horns, chambered nautilus shells, whirlpools, DNA, galaxies, cacti, pine cones, acorns, sunflowers and waves. The very music to which we listen filters through a spiral in the inner ear. Our first connection to life itself is through a spiraling umbilical cord. Clearly, the spiral is one of nature’s most versatile building blocks. No wonder all ancient civilizations have some form of this image in their oldest imagery. Given its appearance at prehistoric burial sites across the globe, the spiral most likely represented the “life-death-rebirth” cycle.

The writers at SpiralZoom.com explain this eloquently: “Part of human existence is constantly encountering the fundamental laws of nature, then interpreting and engaging with them. Through this process, disparate peoples and succeeding generations develop their own cultural mythologies that seek to answers the time-old questions of humanity: What kind of creature am I? Where do I come from? What am I made of? What happens when I die? Human ancestors asked these same questions as they gazed at the sky – scratching their visions and conjectures into stone. Whatever story they wove, all across the globe, our ancestors carved the spiral.” We call upon the spirals sacred architecture now to help us find meaning in this cancer journey and emerge from it more enlightened.

Similarly, the spiral also symbolized the sun – with its radiating heat waves. Ancient peoples thought the sun was born each morning, died each night, and was reborn the next morning. May we feel reborn each day with new determination to live this day in a place of hope.

Spiral

Star

We can only imagine the billions of human eyes that have gazed upwards into the night sky since the beginning of time – astounded by the stars glistening there. These nova storms have served as guiding lights for celestial navigation and beacons showing us the way to world changing events. The calendars we use to count off our days are based upon their movement across the sky. We wish upon them and dream incredible dreams looking at them – and feel hope that there is more to this earthly life than we know.

We use the star in this context to remind us to look up in hope. It is impossible to count the stars – just as it is impossible to count the billions of healthy cells hard at work in our bodies right now. Unseen – like the invisible stars during daylight – they are all quietly working away in the magic language that only our bodies speak. They whisper: “Get well. Get well. We are getting well with every breath.”

Star

Swallow

These birds seem to fly simply for the joy of it. It is as if they themselves are amazed that they awoke this day with the ability to fly and must use it all up by sundown before the magic spell vanishes. Shakespeare sings their praises in Act 5 of Richard III: “True hope is swift, and flies with swallow’s wings . . .”

Swallows have been incorporated in Christian religious stories partly because of their arrival in Europe around the time of Easter. They are also symbolic because apostle stories place them at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, either trying to distract those sent to arrest him in the garden or to comfort him on the cross.

Elsewhere, its long journeys have been well-observed, and a swallow tattoo is popular amongst nautical men as the symbol of a safe return. The tradition was that a mariner had a tattoo of this fellow wanderer after sailing 5,000 nautical miles. A second swallow would be added after 10,000 nautical miles.

The longevity of swallows’ nests is well documented. Survival, with suitable annual refurbishment, for 10–15 years is regular, and one nest was reported to have been occupied for 48 years. We can all only hope to mimic their lives: Awaken each day with such enthusiasm, joy and wonder; Lay the foundation of our own lives as strong and solid as their nests; Let hope come into our lives swiftly and then maintain it for the distance as we anticipate our mind and body’s safe return.

Swallow

Turtle Dove

Mourning Doves get their name because of the distinct melancholic “woo-oo-oo” sound that evokes the feeling of misery owing to the loss of a dear one. However, the symbol of mourning doves is spiritual as well as optimistic. Though the sound of this bird is sorrowful, it symbolizes peace, renewal and hope in a refreshing life. There is likely no more appropriate symbol of innocence, gentleness, loyalty and affection than the Turtle Dove. For thousands of years in many different cultures they have been associated with godliness, immortality, power, victory, and kinship.

Perhaps because of Biblical references (especially the well-known verse from the Song of Songs), its mournful voice, and the fact that it forms lifelong pair bonds, Turtle Doves have become emblems of devoted love. In Renaissance Europe, the Turtle Dove was envisaged as the devoted partner of the Phoenix – to include William Shakespeare’s poem “The Phoenix and the Turtle.”

We add the Turtle Dove to our family of symbols on the Hope Tree as a reminder that we can be both fierce and gentle at the same time on this cancer journey. As the Turtle Dove bonds for life with its mate – we will not abandon our mind, body or spirit in this struggle.

Turtle Dove

Water

There is no Earthly element more universally symbolic of life, purification, truth and spirit than water. The vital force of the Earth is water. Because of its fluidity it fills everything it enters – singing to us along the way – always seeking a level balance. It is the ability to wash us clean and its never ending search for balance that we honor when using water as such an important symbol on the Hope Tree.

A calm lake or calm seas can appear motionless. Almost asleep. But we must look deeper. Slip beneath the surface of these calm waters and we see life teaming from every molecule. This is precisely what is happening in our bodies as we heal ourselves of cancer. We will not be fooled by how still things appear on the surface. We will trust in the billions of cells -swimming in our body’s own water – going about the urgent business of repair. We will trust in our miraculous ability to heal, recover and thrive once more.

Water is an intrinsic part of most spiritual beliefs. Its uses and symbolism in religion are many and varied; its spiritual and healing properties are seen in rites and rituals; and its representations are as numerous as they are diverse. These different religious and cultural aspects of water reflect the vast array of civilizations that have made water the central element in their practices. (Courtesy of UNESCO Water and World Views)

Water

Food For Thought

If we did things that we are capable of, we would astound ourselves.

- by Thomas Edison

Join us LIVE every Thursday at 9 AM MST for inspiring conversations and interviews about hope.

Share

Please Note

This web site is not a medical or psychological consultation service. Any information or opinion expressed is provided only to supplement information provided by your doctors and nurses. It is not intended as a substitute for competent medical or psychological care. Any use of the information in this web site is at the user's discretion. Carol Jeanotilla and Big3D Productions, Inc. disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained in this web site, blog or newsletter.